APTA Members Assist Critically Injured at Boston Marathon

A team of 70 members of APTA's Massachusetts Chapter, stationed at the Boston Marathon finish line on April 15 when tragedy struck, stepped in despite a chaotic scene to help injured people. These volunteers, led by Dave Nolan, PT, DPT, OSC, consisted of physical therapists and physical therapist students from Northeastern University, Simmons College, and Boston University. Nolan said, "All are physically OK but are certainly dealing with tremendous emotional challenges right now. I am proud of how each member reacted in the face of catastrophe to provide exceptional care for the critically injured."

Massachusetts Chapter President George Coggeshall, PT, DPT, reported that no APTA members who were runners, spectators, or volunteers were hurt in the blast*; however, there are members whose family and loved ones were among the more than 170 injured people. Coggeshall expressed sincere thanks to those who aided the victims and everyone who reached out to the Massachusetts Chapter. "Thank you for your many emails and calls expressing your concerns, caring, compassion and love," Coggeshall said. "We will do our best to follow the footsteps of those chapters who have survived adversity and tragedy."

If you are interested in helping people affected by this tragic event, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Tom Menino have announced the formation of The One Fund Boston. Learn more about The One Fund Boston.

*Update - 4/19/13: New information on the Boston Marathon bombing indicates that an APTA member, Lee Ann Yanni, PT, and her husband, Nick, were injured there. According to a local news source and a Today show interview, Yanni suffered a broken leg, shrapnel wounds, and temporary hearing loss. The blast ruptured her husband's eardrums. The couple was cheering on a friend who had just finished the race.

Correction: This story was updated 4/18/13: Northeastern University was previously misidentified as Northern University. We apologize for the error.

Comments

It is a true tragic event. I have roots as a Physical Therapist trained at Northeastern University and having grown up in the Boston area. All of the first responders whether intended as volunteers or there as spectators should be proud of their great efforts to help the injured.

Posted by Barrie Flagg, PT
on 4/19/2013 5:26 PM

Franklin Pierce University in Concord, NH also had students present in the medical tents aiding runners.

Posted by Jonathan Walton
on 4/19/2013 6:11 PM

HOPE you all have the supplies to keep our professionals at their finest. You have many warriors keeping you in thought. Blessings for healing and expedient recovery time.
Heidi